Black Milk Secures Funding to Support Growth and Expansion

Black Milk, a popular Manchester café, has secured vital funding to fuel its ambitious growth plans following a surge in interest from high-profile retailers. The café’s range of spreads and granolas has attracted attention from major high-street names, including Co-op, Booths, Selfridges, Delli, Modern Milkman, Amazon, and Tesco.

Founded by Oliver Taylor nine years ago, Black Milk began as a milkshake and cereal café, offering baked goods to its loyal customers. Over the years, it has expanded its menu to include pancakes, gelato, and a variety of innovative desserts. The café also operates an online shop, where its popular spreads and granolas are sold—products that are also key ingredients in its in-store creations.

Oliver’s culinary journey began in French and Argentinian restaurants, where he honed his skills and developed a passion for desserts, sauces, and ice creams. These experiences inspired the creation of Black Milk, which combines his expertise with a unique concept that places sweet treats at the heart of the brand.

The café has now secured a loan from the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II (NPIF II), marking the first NPIF II deal in Greater Manchester since the fund’s launch earlier this year. The funding, delivered by NPIF – GC Business Finance and River Capital Smaller Loans, will play a pivotal role in Black Milk’s next stage of growth.

This financial support will enable Black Milk to explore new brand collaborations and expand its market presence. In April, the café partnered with the English Cheesecake Company to create a vanilla and hazelnut cheesecake, which is now stocked in 750 stores nationwide. Black Milk also collaborates with Yockenthwaite Farm in Skipton, sourcing granola for its granola-based products.

Most recently, Black Milk’s spreads were launched in Selfridges, where they quickly became a hit. The global department store has already placed a follow-up order due to their popularity.

This funding represents an exciting milestone for Black Milk as it continues to expand its product offerings and strengthen its presence in both retail and hospitality sectors. The café’s innovative approach and commitment to quality have made it a standout success in Manchester and beyond.

Oliver Taylor, Founder of Black Milk, said: "We set up Black Milk almost a decade ago from humble roots. I grew up on a council estate, and the NPIF II funding has been crucial in providing support to get to where we are today – we wouldn’t have been able to achieve what we have without it.

"We wouldn’t have been able to stock shelves in Selfridges or create a cereal in partnership with other brilliant brands without the funding so we’re really grateful to NPIF II for supporting us as we grow. We are now able to give back, and support some brilliant local charities, such as Mad Dog Street Project and Mustard Tree."

Alison Darkes, Investment Manager at GC Business Finance, said: "It has been a delight to work with Oliver and Andy to provide the first NPIF II loan in Greater Manchester. They are such lovely, passionate people to work with, and the success they have achieved so far is admirable.

"Not only are the team working with on some brilliant collaborations, with some well-loved local businesses, but they’re also giving back to the local community through the work they are doing with charities within the community."

Sue Barnard, Senior Manager at British Business Bank, said: "Dessert bars have seen a peaked interest in recent years, with customers flocking to these kinds of venues to try the varied products on offer. Oliver and Andy have done a brilliant job of building a successful café, working with other local suppliers and partnering with some big names at the same time. This is a really exciting first deal for Greater Manchester, and highlights how NPIF II can support founders across the region to achieve their dreams."